THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH IS IN CHARGE OF MAKING SURE THE LAWS OF THE USA ARE OBEYED. THE BRANCH IS HEADED BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
The President gets help from the Vice President, department heads (called Cabinet members), and heads of independent agencies.
The President leads the country and commands the military.
The Vice President becomes President if the President can no longer do the job and is also President of the Senate.
Department heads advise the President on issues and help carry out decisions made by the Government.
Independent Agencies also help carry out decisions made by the Government or provide special services.
Legislative Branch
THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH IS IN CHARGE OF MAKING LAWS. IT IS MADE UP OF THE CONGRESS.
Congress has two parts: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Members of the House of Representatives and the Senate are voted into office by American citizens in each state. There are currently 100 Senators, 435 Representatives.
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Judicial Branch
THE JUDICIAL BRANCH IS IN CHARGE OF DECIDING THE MEANING OR LAWS, HOW TO APPLY THEM TO REAL SITUATIONS, AND WHETHER A LAW BREAKS THE RULES OF THE CONSTITUTION.
The Constitution is the highest law of our Nation. The U.S. Supreme Court, the highest court in the United States, is part of the judicial branch. The Supreme Court is made up of 9 judges called justices who are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.